Research in this department focuses on the utilization of molecular genetics for the study of diverse biological processes, including the study of viruses, control of cell growth and death, cytokines and receptors, human genetic disorders, gene expression, intracellular trafficking and development. One major theme is the use of genetics of model organisms and cell culture genetics, to dissect the role of genes in the context of the whole animal. Another focus of the department is on genomics and bioinformatics.

The research activities of the Department of Biological Chemistry span several topics in the life sciences with overlapping interests. The common thread connecting these activities is the study of proteins in key biological processes ranging from transport across membranes and signal transduction, to gene expression and DNA repair. The department has more than 30 research groups whose activities are centered around the following five foci of interest: